The following student recognition were awarded:
- Recognition of the National Speech and Debate Winners.
Superintendent, Dr. Asplen gave his 2026-2027 State of the Schools
- Career Academies: Sixty-four percent of high school students participated in 31 career academies, earning over 5,700 industry certifications last year.
- Workforce Readiness: Students gain real-world experience and many secure jobs or internships in fields like engineering, healthcare, and manufacturing.
- FCTC: offers dual enrollment and adult education with nearly 100% placement like welding, nursing, and HVAC.
- New Schools and Facilities: Sablecrest Academy and Magnolia Oaks Academy opened with high enrollment; Hastings High School renovation preserves historic features.
- Athletic Facilities: New synthetic fields and track improvement at Ponte Vedra, Nease and St. Augustine High Schools ready for upcoming sports season.
- Performing Arts Center: St Augustine High School’s center is in phase two, focusing on aesthetics and equipment upgrades, completing this semester.
- Budget Management: Implemented $23 million in cuts to balance the 2026-2027 budget, aligning with state funding received in July.
- Capital Projects Funding: Half-cent sales tax and recent referendum support school infrastructure improvements and employee retention.
- Employee Compensation: Referendum funds increase salaries by $4,500 to $9,000 for employees aiding retention amid inflation and regional competition.
- Union Negotiations: Tentative agreements reached with union employees, pending ratification, expected to positively impact staff retention.
- Strategic Plan Goals: Focus on reading proficiency by third grade, increased math and English gains, student attendance, and recruitment/retention.
- Student Attendance: Emphasized as critical for academic success; ongoing efforts to improve attendance rates districtwide.
- Recruitment Needs: Urgent need for bus operators and excellent teachers to maintain quality education and services.
- Marketing efforts: Enhanced school marketing through social media and news to promote district achievements and attract students.
- School Safety and Welfare: Referendum funds supplement costs for youth resource deputies and ensure full nursing staff coverage in schools.
- Teacher Staffing: Only 23 teacher vacancies remain before school starts, significantly lower than usual, attributed to support.
- District Success: St. Johns County Schools recognized as number one in Florida, with strong focus on student academics and collaboration.
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